How One Mom Survived Two Brain Aneurysms and Returned to the Classroom
After years of putting her own health last, Josefina Rios discovered two brain aneurysms—and found hope through expert care at Atlantic Brain and Spine.
After surviving two brain aneurysms and undergoing two surgeries, Josefina Rios returned to the classroom and the life she loves.
When Josefina Rios was diagnosed with polycystic kidney disease (PKD) in 2017, her physicians recommended screening for brain aneurysms. PKD is known to increase the risk of aneurysm formation, and Josefina’s family history made that risk even greater.
Like many busy parents, she put her own health on hold. Between raising a family, welcoming her second child, and starting a new career as a Spanish teacher, years passed before she finally underwent the recommended imaging.
What doctors discovered would change her life.
A Routine Scan Reveals a Serious Threat
On Mother’s Day in 2023, Josefina finally completed a CT scan. Moments later, she was told she needed immediate evaluation.
Additional testing revealed two brain aneurysms: a nearly 10 mm aneurysm on the right side of her brain and a second aneurysm on the left side. She was transferred to Overlook Medical Center, where she came under the care of Kyle T. Chapple, MD, a neurosurgeon specializing in the treatment of brain aneurysms and cerebrovascular disease.
Overcoming Delays and Uncertainty
Despite the urgency of the diagnosis, insurance approval delays postponed treatment. During that time, Josefina experienced headaches, facial numbness, and rising anxiety as she feared the possibility of rupture.
Eventually, approval was granted and surgery was scheduled.
Josefina Rios and Dr. Kyle T. Chapple following successful treatment of a life-threatening brain aneurysm.
Treating the First Aneurysm
In July 2023, Dr. Chapple performed a right pterional craniotomy and aneurysm clipping to treat the larger aneurysm.
The procedure was successful, and Josefina’s recovery exceeded expectations.
“It was a miracle. I wasn’t even in pain. Dr. Chapple is an angel right here on earth.”
After several months of recovery, follow-up imaging confirmed the treated aneurysm remained secure.
A Second Challenge Requires a Different Approach
Attention then turned to the second aneurysm. An initial attempt at minimally invasive treatment was halted when Dr. Chapple determined the anatomy of the aneurysm made the procedure unsafe.
Rather than forcing a higher-risk solution, he recommended a different approach.
In July 2024, Josefina underwent a second craniotomy and aneurysm clipping procedure to treat the remaining aneurysm.
The surgery was successful, and her recovery was even faster than the first.
Back to the Classroom—and Back to Life
By October, Josefina had returned to teaching and resumed the activities she loved.
Although she later experienced symptoms that raised concerns about another aneurysm, follow-up testing confirmed her brain had healed and both aneurysms had been successfully treated.
“When I was first diagnosed, I was living in constant worry. But after my first procedure, I realized how precious life really is.”
Today, Josefina continues to focus on her health while embracing every opportunity to spend time with her family, students, and community.
Understanding Brain Aneurysms
A brain aneurysm occurs when a weakened area in a blood vessel wall begins to bulge outward. While many aneurysms never cause symptoms, larger aneurysms or ruptured aneurysms can lead to life-threatening complications.
Risk factors may include family history, certain genetic conditions such as polycystic kidney disease (PKD), smoking, and high blood pressure.
Early detection and expert evaluation can help determine whether monitoring or treatment is appropriate.
Concerned About a Brain Aneurysm?
If you’ve been diagnosed with a brain aneurysm or have a family history of aneurysms, our neurovascular specialists can help you understand your options.
While Rios’ recovery from two brain aneurysms was a success, her PKD has unfortunately progressed to stage four kidney damage. She is currently on the transplant list hoping to find a donor. True to her spirit, she remains faithful, takes things one at a time, and makes the most of every day.
The priest at Rios’ church, Father Christopher Keenan, is serving as a main point of contact for anyone interested in helping Josefina. Possible kidney donors or those who would like to provide financial assistance can reach Father Keenan at fdnychaplainchris@yahoo.com. Your support is greatly appreciated.
